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Reps. Lawrence and Tlaib Address Blight Elimination Program in Detroit

Jasmin Lee

April 24, 2019

Rep. Brenda Lawrence (MI-14) and Rep. Rashida Tlaib (MI-13) sent a letter to the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) and Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) urging the agencies to address the possible public health concerns regarding potentially contaminated demolition sites in Detroit.

“As a member of Congress representing a portion of Detroit, the health and safety of my constituents are of utmost concern,” said Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence. “I am deeply concerned by the news of potentially contaminated soil being used to fill demolition sites as part of the Blight Elimination Program. I look forward to working closely with MDEQ and MSHDA to ensure that proper oversight is being conducted.

“There’s no question that families want blight removed out of the neighborhoods, but they also want their communities free of contamination and materials harmful to their health,” said Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib. “Too long have communities in the 13th Congressional District been impacted by pollution and contamination in their air, soil, and for many, their water

– we cannot have a Blight Elimination Program that adds to this harm. Our residents deserve to know that demolitions are being performed in the most environmentally friendly and safest way possible. I look forward to working with MDEQ and MSDHA to ensure that our residents are protected. I will continue to take action to help make sure this is happening.”

Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence

“With over 11,000 homes demolished in Wayne County, we are requesting MDEQ and MSHDA to take a deeper look into the Blight Elimination Program, as well as provide an update on the plan of action regarding oversight of this issue,” said Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence.

Citizens of Michigan, especially Detroit, deserve to know that proper precautions are being taken to address their concerns.”